Vegan Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Recipe Easy and Delicious

There’s nothing quite like indulging in a scoop of creamy, dreamy vanilla bean ice cream on a warm day, and the best part is that you don’t need dairy to enjoy this classic treat! This vegan vanilla bean ice cream recipe is a luscious, plant-based delight that captures the essence of real vanilla beans with a rich and velvety texture.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to try a healthier alternative, this recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without compromising on taste or creaminess.

Made with wholesome ingredients like coconut milk and natural sweeteners, this ice cream is easy to prepare at home, requiring just a few simple steps. It’s customizable, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to become your go-to summer dessert.

Plus, it’s a fabulous base for all kinds of toppings and mix-ins, letting you get creative every time you make it. Ready to whip up a batch of this luscious vegan vanilla bean ice cream?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan vanilla bean ice cream recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Rich and Creamy Texture: Thanks to full-fat coconut milk, the ice cream is silky smooth without any artificial thickeners.
• Pure Vanilla Flavor: Using real vanilla beans gives a fragrant and authentic taste that’s far superior to extracts.
• Simple and Natural Ingredients: No preservatives or complicated additives—just plant-based goodness.
• Customizable and Allergy-Friendly: It’s soy-free, gluten-free, and can be sweetened to your preference.
• Easy to Make at Home: With or without an ice cream maker, you can enjoy homemade ice cream anytime.

If you’re curious about other vegan treats, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a perfect dessert companion.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut milk – chilled overnight for best results
• 1 vanilla bean – split and seeds scraped
• 3/4 cup organic maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for gluten-free option)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Fine mesh sieve (optional, for a smoother texture)
• Ice cream maker (optional but recommended)
• Freezer-safe container with lid
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the coconut milk: Shake the cans of coconut milk well. Open and pour into a medium saucepan. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the pod to the coconut milk.
2. Heat the base: Warm the coconut milk and vanilla bean mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes to infuse the vanilla flavor deeply.
3. Mix the thickener: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Slowly whisk this slurry into the warm coconut milk mixture to avoid lumps.
4. Sweeten and thicken: Return the saucepan to medium heat. Add the maple syrup and salt, whisking continuously. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove the vanilla bean pod and discard.
5. Add vanilla extract: Stir in the pure vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
6. Cool the mixture: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl (optional for smoothness). Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Churn the ice cream: Pour the chilled base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes until soft-serve texture is achieved.
8. Freeze to set: Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and smooth the top. Cover tightly and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up.
9. Serve and enjoy: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving.

Tips & Variations

“For a creamier texture, try adding a tablespoon of vegan coconut yogurt or soaked cashews blended into the base before chilling.”

• Sweetener swaps: Use coconut sugar or date syrup for a different flavor profile.
• Extract alternatives: Feel free to substitute vanilla extract with almond or coconut extract for a twist.
• No ice cream maker? Pour the mixture into a shallow container, freeze, and stir vigorously every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals.
• Add-ins: Mix in vegan chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or fresh berries after churning for extra texture and flavor.
• Make it soy-free: This recipe is naturally soy-free, but always check your ingredients to be sure.

If you love experimenting with vegan dairy-free sauces, try our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes for inspiration.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan vanilla bean ice cream is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with many desserts and treats. Here are some serving ideas to try:

• Top with fresh berries and a drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce for a decadent sundae.
• Serve alongside warm fruit pies or crumbles for a perfect contrast of hot and cold.
• Use as a creamy base for a vegan milkshake by blending with your favorite plant-based milk and fruits.
• Pair with homemade vegan cookies or Vegetable Crackers Recipe for Healthy Homemade Snacking for a delightful combo.
• Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

This vegan vanilla bean ice cream recipe is a game changer for anyone craving a luscious, dairy-free dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor or creaminess. The real vanilla bean infusion and the rich coconut milk create a perfectly balanced treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering, a cozy night in, or just as a daily sweet escape, this ice cream is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Best of all, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients and flexible enough to customize to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Don’t forget to explore more delicious plant-based recipes like our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to complement your culinary repertoire.

Happy cooking and enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite!

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